National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which outcome would a physical therapist expect to address most directly through mobility training in patients with knee pathologies?

1. Strength improvement

2. Pain reduction

3. Cardiovascular endurance

4. Balance enhancement

The correct answer is: Pain reduction

Mobility training in patients with knee pathologies primarily focuses on improving the patient's ability to move effectively and efficiently. This directly impacts pain reduction as improved mobility can alleviate stress on the knee joint, leading to less discomfort during movement. By engaging in mobility exercises, patients often experience a better range of motion and decreased stiffness, which can directly contribute to alleviating pain. Strength improvement may also be a goal of rehabilitation, but its effects on pain are more indirect, as building strength in surrounding muscles can support the joint and enhance mobility over time. Cardiovascular endurance and balance enhancement are important components of overall physical therapy but are not the primary outcomes specifically connected to mobility training in the context of knee issues. Therefore, while those aspects can be improved through holistic approaches, the most immediate and targeted outcome of mobility training for patients with knee pathologies is pain reduction.